EL5 Shapes of Molecules Flashcards
What does VSEPR stand for?
Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion Theory
Define VSEPR
The shape adopted by a simple molecule/ion to keep its repulsive forces at a minimum
Why does each covalent bond repel the other?
Covalent bonds consist of pairs of electrons which carry a negative charge
Why do bonds push each other as far apart as possible?
To reduce the repulsive forces between their pairs of electrons
Why are single bonds equally spaced?
Because the repulsion between each bond are equal
What bond angle does a linear molecule have?
180 degrees
How many bond pairs does a linear molecule have?
2
Define a linear molecule
An atom/ion where two groups of electrons surround its centre
Give 3 examples of linear molecules
- BeCl2
- CO2
- Ethyne
What bond angle does a trigonal planar/planar triangular molecule have?
120 degrees
How many bond pairs does a trigonal planar/planar triangular molecule have?
3
Define a trigonal planar/planar triangular molecule
An atom/ion where three groups of electrons surround its centre
Give three examples of trigonal planar/planar triangular molecules
- Ethene
- Methanol
- BF3
What bond angle does a tetrahedral molecule have?
109.5 degrees
How many bond pairs does a tetrahedral molecule have?
4
Define a tetrahedral molecule
An atom or ion where four groups of electrons surround its centre
Give three examples of tetrahedral molecules
- Methane
- Ethane
- Ammonium ion
What bond angles does a trigonal bipyramidal molecule have?
120 or 90 degrees (depending on the position in the molecule)
How many bond pairs does a trigonal bipyramidal molecule have?
5
Define a trigonal bipyramidal molecule
An atom/ion where five groups of electrons surround its centre
Give an example of a trigonal bipyramidal molecule
PF5
What bond angle does an octahedral molecule have?
90 degrees
How many bond pairs does an octahedral molecule have?
6
Define an octahedral molecule
An atom/ion where six groups of electrons surround its centre
Give one less common example of an octahedral molecule
- SF6
Where are octahedral shapes usually found?
- In the shapes of complexes of metal ions with six ligands e.g Ni(NH3)6